ESSENDON has elevated Category B rookie Ben McNiece to the senior list, raising speculation that he will make his AFL debut in the Anzac Day blockbuster against Collingwood.

McNiece has been elevated in place of Jayden Laverde, who is on the long-term injury list while rehabilitating from ankle surgery.

The 25-year-old, whose mother is Indian, was signed as the Bombers' inaugural Next Generation Academy player in November, and has impressed with a string of consistent performances with the Dons' VFL side this season.

The medium defender, who is known for his neat foot skills, looms as a possible replacement for Conor McKenna, who was suspended for a match after the loss to Adelaide last week.

Essendon will finalise its team for Tuesday's match at 5.30pm on Saturday.